Do you discuss the U.S. Presidential Race with your students?

A very strong majority of teachers report that they discuss the U.S. Presidential Race with their students. Elections are history in the making and are a perfect opportunity to make past political history more relevant. Every student at some time in their academic career will be exposed to American political history. Discussing the current U.S. Presidential Race can give the students a better perspective on what has happened in the past.

Elections can be confusing, especially for younger students and discussing different aspects of them can demystify the process and increase their understanding. Politics is a very divisive issue and it is sometimes difficult for parents to present an objective view of the candidates or the process. Some parents refuse to discuss politics at all, either because of their own apathy or ignorance. If our children are to become knowledgeable, informed voters in the future, they need things to be explained in an objective, easy to understand manner.

This Presidential Race is particularly significant as the United States has the possibility of electing the first African American President. The cultural significance of this can lead to so many other topics including slavery and the civil rights movement. Discussions of equal opportunity and equality are important and may be learning opportunities that are not possible at home.

The very youngest students will only understand the very basics of the election race and discussions will need to be kept quick and easy. Older students, especially those in later secondary school grades, can understand all the nuances and implications of campaign speeches and election promises. The opportunity to debate different points of view should lead to lively discussions.

Current events should be included in student learning in some way or fashion and with this Presidential Race being particularly significant it more important than ever to keep students informed. It teaches students to be objective in their reading of current events on their own, helping them to make informed, educated decisions in the future.